Tag Archives: Free patterns

Learn How-to-Crochet

One of my favorite ways to relax involves wrapping yarn around my fingers and using a funny tool with a hook on it to make beautiful creations. Crochet. Ahhhh…. I just love it. I must confess, it wasn’t relaxing at first. When I began, it was very frustrating and I often felt like throwing the hook across the room. I persevered and now it flows almost naturally. I won’t say it doesn’t ever frustrate me, but it’s more of a puzzle to solve rather than a ball of yarn that’s getting the best of me!

Now, I’m not actually going to post step by step instructions here – but I am posting links to my favorite instructional sites. I love to teach people how to crochet, but in person. So – if you want a lesson, let me know and we’ll set up a mini-class! But for now, enjoy these links!

Free how-to-crochet tutorials

Free Patterns

You can find free patterns everywhere, however some aren’t very well written or full of mistakes. It’s very frustrating to be halfway through the pattern and realize it isn’t working. I stick with patterns from name brands in crafts or yarns. Ravelry has a lot of patterns – just because they are on that site, doesn’t mean they are good. I look for patterns that are NOT by people, but from companies. Most of the patterns you buy are better patterns. There are some good patterns by people, but until you know, it’s better to be cautious.

Reading a pattern

I suggest starting with a small pattern, like a flower or heart. Better yet, to practice the different stitches, use a cotton yarn and make a swatch. If you make it big enough, it can be a washcloth.

Free Washcloth Pattern

Chain 2o stitches. Turn. For the first row, practice single crochets. Turn. Chain 2 then do a row of half double crochets. Turn. Chain 3 and do a row of double crochets. Turn. Chain 4 and do a row of triple crochets. Repeat until you have a square. Fasten off and weave in ends.